Cilantro Taco Grill to Open 110 Units

Cilantro Taco Grill (Chicago) said it has 110 locales in its development pipeline six months after starting to franchise its authentic Mexican fast-casual brand. The news comes just as the business was named one of America’s Hottest Startup Fast Casual Brands in 2024 by QSR, as well as ranked #32 on Fast Casual‘s Top 100 Movers & Shakers.

Thus far, six different groups have signed franchise or area rep agreements with Cilantro Taco Grill for units in its home state of Illinois, along with Texas, California and Florida.

“What started as a small taqueria in 2013 has now scaled into a thriving brand spreading across the U.S.,” said Founder Temoc Morfin, whose company currently operates 15 restaurants in Chicagoland, with three more in the pipeline there this year. “This growth is not just a testament to our passion and dedication but also a beacon of hope for other families striving to achieve the American dream. Together, we are creating opportunities and sharing the flavors of our heritage with communities nationwide.”

Says Dan Rowe, CEO of Fransmart, Cilantro Taco Grill’s exclusive franchise development partner: “The next big thing in the Mexican fast-casual space is real Mexican food. Chipotle and Taco Bell are now trying to come up with what they call ‘authentic Mexican’ menu items, but they are not actual Mexican concepts, so at best they will be superficial examples. Anyone who has been to Mexico and loves the food will know the difference when they try Cilantro Taco Grill.”